You’ll need to replace your Ford Edge rear differential fluid with non-synthetic 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil. You should be able to replace the fluid at home if you have a drain pan and a bottle of differential oil.

Ford

ownership can feel like a full-time job. There are so many fluids to replace and sensors to monitor. One replacement that’s easy to overlook (but absolutely essential) is rear differential fluid replacement.

What is rear differential fluid? And when and how do I replace it? For the answers to these questions and more, read on—

Jerry

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, has created this comprehensive guide to replacing a Ford Edge’s rear differential fluid. We've even thown in some tips to save you money on

Ford Edge car insurance costs

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The best 2009 Ford Edge rear differential fluid

The number one choice of rear differential fluid for the 2009 Ford Edge is Motorcraft’s

SAE 80W-90 Premium Rear Axle Lubricant

. However, there are plenty of great options on the market to choose from.

The best option is another non-synthetic gear lubricant—if the bottle says “80W-90,” it's the correct level of viscosity, while anything that says “GL-5” will have the desired level of sulfur-based additives, which helps the lubricant perform.

Here are some great additional options:

Motul USA Gearbox SAE 80W-90 Conventional API GL-5 Gear Oil

Sta-Lube SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 Limited Slip Differential Fluid

Cusco SAE 80W-90 Conventional API GL-5 Limited Slip Differential Fluid

MORE: How to pick a Ford car seat

What is rear differential fluid—and why does your Ford need it?

You’re probably curious what rear differential fluid even is and why

differential fluid replacement

is so imporant.

Rear differential fluid is a type of motor oil that lubricates the rear axle. This helps keep your car running smoothly and allows your rear wheels to spin at different speeds. This is especially important when you’re off-roading, as each wheel can have its own level of torque, which will help your car deal with rocky, wet, and uneven terrain.

How often to change 2009 Ford Edge rear differential fluid

You’ll want to change your 2009 Ford Edge rear differential fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. While closer to 60,000 is more likely, there are a few reasons you’d want to change your rear differential fluid closer to the 30,000-mile mark, like if you frequently go off-roading in your Ford Edge or regularly drive on rough terrain.

There are also signs that it's time to change up rear differential fuel, even if you haven’t hit the 60,000-mile mark. If you’re experiencing any of the following with your Ford Edge, it’s likely time to change your differential fluid:

A burning smell from the rear gearbox

Whirring, howling, or straining noises

Any unusual vibrations

Now that you know when to change the differential fluid, let’s learn how to change the differential fluid.

MORE:

How to check and decode a Ford VIN

How to change your 2009 Ford Edge’s differential fluid

The first step is to check your Ford Edge’s owner’s manual to confirm your Ford’s specifications. Then, grab the following essential car tools and supplies:

Carjack and jack stands

Socket wrench set

Fluid transfer pump

Drain pan

With everything assembled, you’re ready to get started.

Step 1: Jack up your Ford car for easy access to the rear differential.

Step 2: Remove the fill plug. It’s best to do this first, as the fill plug can be hard to remove.

Step 3: Remove the drain plug.

Step 4: Let the old fluid drain into your drain pan. There may be an unpleasant smell, but don’t worry. That’s the sulfur!

Step 5: Replace the drain plug and then use your pump to fill the differential. The fluid level should be between the bottom of the fill hole and 1/8 inch below the hole. If fluid starts flowing out, you’ve overfilled.

Step 6: Put the fill plug back in place.

That’s it! You’ve successfully changed your rear differential fluid.

MORE: When should I change my transmission fluid?

How to find affordable Ford insurance

Keeping up with your Ford’s maintenance will keep your car from expensive repairs, helping save on ownership costs. Another way to lower your ownership costs is to find a cheaper

car insurance

policy with the help of insurance broker

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